Modernisation programme

One of the Associations key business objectives is to maintain its housing stock for the long term.

In 1991, work started on a programme of internal modernisation, with the older properties in East Cowes being provided with new kitchens and bathrooms, and UPVC double glazing to the windows.

This process has continued uninterrupted ever since, with gas-fired central heating, electrical upgrades, cavity wall insulation, and ,where appropriate, compliance with new fire regulations, being added to the programme.

Partial stock-condition surveys took place in 1994 and 2000 in order to assess, plan, and make provision for future repairs and maintenance requirements of the Association's properties.

A full survey, using state of the art information technology, was then carried out in 2007/2008. From this, a programme is being compiled to ensure all the Association's homes will be sustained for the long-term. This includes meeting the Decent Homes Standards as laid down by Government.

Of course it cannot all be done at once, so prudent financial planning sees that funds for such plans are put aside each year, so that there is sufficient for each individual project as it arises.

The age profile of most of the properties ranges from 1 to 50 years and consists of

2, 3 and 4 bedroom houses

Of the older properties in East Cowes, all but two have been refurbished. The two remaining properties have however, received part modernisation.

Approximately 250 (100 per cent of) properties scheduled have been modernised within this programme. The most recent phase involved the 13 flats and 3 maisonettes at Oakwood Court in Newport. This was spread over a three year period, mainly because of the imposition of fire regulation requirements which were incorporated.

Long-Term Planned Maintenance Program

During the period 2009/2010, the following works are planned

• Ongoing programme of replacement fencing on the Kent Estate in East Cowes
  
• Ongoing electrical upgrading/re-wiring programme various properties
  
• Work on various flats to comply with new fire regulations
  
• Ongoing programme of bathroom modernisation
  
• Ongoing programme of replacement patio door units at Wroxall
  
• Replacement of timber Double Glazed windows with upvc DG type in some areas
  
• Various other work on individual properties